As most of us know, the homecoming of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years and his victory over Ravana is celebrated as Diwali. The crackers are much more costlier this year, even 30-50% costlier compared to last year.

In my childhood, the rockets, anaars, charkhis (chakri) and the exploding crackers used to be the biggest draw. There used to a sense of awe about families that bought most crackers and their kids would continue bursting them even for days after Dipawali.

Now many of my friends say that they don't buy any crackers at all. I find it strange a bit. Just like those who say that they don't splash colours on Holi. At least, a few phuljhadis and anaars that don't make much noise or pollution, can be bought even if you belong to the ultra-green group and too concerned about decibel levels.

Diwali Greeting Card. The message in Urdu.

After all, the manufacturers and sellers wait for the entire year for this time to sell these fireworks. Meanwhile, the kids in my apartment are busy making rangoli. Utensils were bought on dhanteras yesterday and preparation are in full swing for the festival of lights (termed as Jashn-e-Chiraagan in Urdu).

Let's forget all our differences and eat the sweets together. Barack O'bama has already extended his greetings on the occasion. Mine are a bit late than him but more timely. Happy Diwali & Shubh Diwali to all of you. May this year brings you all, more prosperity, joy and happiness.

If you are copying a paragraph, part of any article from anindianmuslim.com on your site [or book] or using an excerpt from a post on this blog, kindly give credit in the form of the name of this blog and its link. Thanks.